Sarcophagus of Azzone ViscontiGiovanni Da BalduccioNone

  • Painting mediumMarble
  • Medium typeSculpture
  • Art movementGothic
  • Art periodLate Medieval
  • MuseumVeneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano
The Mausoleum was commissioned following the death of Azzone Visconti in 1339 by his uncle, Giovanni Visconti, Archbishop of Milan at the time. The artist called to execute the monument was Giovanni di Balduccio. Made between 1340 and 1344 and moved to its current position in 1927 having been moved various times, the monument depicts Azzone Visconti in the upper section lying on the sarcophagus, surrounded by four angels. Saint Ambrose is represented in the centre of the front section of the sarcophagus flanked by Ludovico il Bavaro, thus conferring the dignity of the imperial vicar to Azzone, portrayed to the right of the Saint. They are surrounded by representations of the city associated with the Visconti family, accompanied by their respective Patron Saints. To the right of the central group, for example, the city of Como is represented with a boat in hand and flanked by Saint Abundius. The refinement of Giovanni di Balduccio can be appreciated in the detail of the clothing and in the grace of the figures.

Giovanni Da Balduccio (1290 – 1349)

Giovanni da Balduccio (c. 1290-1349) was a pivotal Italian Gothic sculptor, blending Tuscan & classical styles. Known for intricate marble works like the Shrine of St. Peter Martyr and sarcophagi, he influenced medieval sculpture.

Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano (Milan, Italy)

Discover the Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano: guardian of Milan's iconic cathedral! Explore centuries of artistry, architectural plans & historical treasures within this unique institution dedicated to preserving a masterpiece.

About this artwork

  • Title: Sarcophagus of Azzone Visconti
  • Artist: Giovanni Da Balduccio
  • Format: Landscape
  • Copyright status: Public domain
  • Where to see it: Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano
  • Movement: Gothic
  • Period: Late Medieval
  • Corpus context: visconti family power, masterpiece of marble sculpture
  • Color palette: Earthy
  • Main color: Espresso

Questions & Answers

Who created "Sarcophagus of Azzone Visconti" and what style is it in?

Giovanni Da Balduccio created "Sarcophagus of Azzone Visconti" within the Gothic movement.

What is the overall mood of "Sarcophagus of Azzone Visconti" by Giovanni Da Balduccio?

The overall mood of "Sarcophagus of Azzone Visconti" by Giovanni Da Balduccio is classic. The mood describes the general atmosphere of the work.

How does the subject of "Sarcophagus of Azzone Visconti" relate to Giovanni Da Balduccio's usual themes?

Giovanni Da Balduccio's recurring themes include pisan sculptural excellence, gothic style influence, visconti family power, religious and imperial dignity, masterpiece of marble sculpture; "Sarcophagus of Azzone Visconti" focuses on man lying down, figures, people, religious figures, sculpture, marble texture.

From which era does "Sarcophagus of Azzone Visconti" date?

"Sarcophagus of Azzone Visconti" belongs to the Late-Medieval era.

Which artistic current is "Sarcophagus of Azzone Visconti" by Giovanni Da Balduccio part of?

"Sarcophagus of Azzone Visconti" by Giovanni Da Balduccio belongs to the Gothic movement. This movement provides the stylistic context of the work.

Is "Sarcophagus of Azzone Visconti" more bright or more dark overall?

The recorded values for "Sarcophagus of Azzone Visconti" by Giovanni Da Balduccio are: balanced brightness, soft shadow luminance.

Who created "Sarcophagus of Azzone Visconti"?

The artist behind "Sarcophagus of Azzone Visconti" is Giovanni Da Balduccio. The work is catalogued under Giovanni Da Balduccio's name.

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